From the Board of Directors - Exercise Your Exclusive Member Right

As we head into elections for the Wedge Board of Directors, take time to read carefully the candidate statements in the election section of this issue of the newsletter, and then exercise one of your most important rights as a member-owner of this Co-op - select the individuals designated to act on your behalf in ensuring the continued success of the Wedge. Members have a real voice in governance and in the direction of their Co-op. As such, it is imperative that EACH member participate in this process.

Historically, about 12-15% of the Wedge membership has cast ballots for the board elections. Last year was different. Of our required quorum of 10% of the membership, only 7% of our members voted in the 2003 election. Without a quorum, we did not have a valid election, forcing the Board of Directors to appoint candidates to vacant seats for one year, and opening the same seats up for election again this year.

Continuing to operate without a properly elected board can have serious ramifications for the future of the Wedge. Remember, your vote is crucial to sustaining the health of your Co-op. The Board of Directors is responsible for protecting the assets of the Wedge for you, its member-owners. In addition to the financial oversight, the Board must plan for the future by setting policies and establishing long-range goals. The Board is also responsible for hiring and evaluating the General Manager.

Complacency in today's volatile marketplace could spell "trouble" for our area Co-ops. In the increasingly complex environment of the grocery business, ensuring the election of a Board that can help the Wedge remain strong and competitive, while staying responsive to membership, is more important than ever.

Participation in this process is a tangible reminder that the Wedge is more than just a great place to shop. With your support and continued participation in your Co-op as a voting member-owner, we can continue the original cooperative mission of collective efforts, healthy living, and food for people, not for profit.